Renewable Energies

The Government has developed a range of measures to encourge the development of micro-renewables and local sources of energy. Feed-in tariffs, renewable heat incentives, Renewable Order Certificates are designed to promote the uptake of local energy supplies.

However, understanding the economics of investment, and subsequent rates of return, particularly for organisations with large estates that could establish a network of renewable energy facilities is complex.

The Centre has been working with one Scottish Local Authority to establish the economic opportunites of a major capital investment in photovoltaics and wind turbines across their estate (3,000 buildings). The research concluded that wind turbine technology offered the best return, although PV installation costs are becoming cheaper.

For more information contact Dr Charles Russell.